Agave Plants: A Comprehensive Guide to Species, Growth, and Uses

Agave is a succulent plant that belongs to the Agavaceae faimly. There are over 300 species of Agave plants. Most of these species are monocarpic (those that flower, set seeds and then die). You can find these plants mainly in Mexico, but in southern and western United States as well.

Description

• Most agaves have thick and rigid leaves. The leaves have sharp teeth. They appear together in a clump of plants.

Nutrition

• Agave plants contain carbohydrates in the core of the plant. Agave were also fermented by native Americans to make pulque, an alcoholic beverage. It is a sacred religious drink.

Agave Syrup

• During the inflorescence stage of the agave development, there is sap that runs from the base of the stalk. This is agave syrup that can be used as an alternative to sugar.

Warning

• One must be careful of the juice that some species of agave produce. The juice will cause redness of the skin and will cause it to itch.

Misconceptions

• Many people believe agave is a type of cacti, but it is not.